DRUG: CALCIUM GLUCONATE

PRESENTATION: Ampoule: 1g in 10mL, (10%). (contains 0.22mmol Calcium per mL)

ACTION & INDICATION:

Intravenous electrolyte for the treatment of hypocalcaemia Ionized calcium less than 0.65mmol/l (<0.75mmol/l if symptomatic) Hyperkalaemia

DOSE: Usual dose: 500mg (5mL of 10% ampoule solution) /kg/24 hours Maximum dose: 800mg/kg/24hours In hypocalcaemia seizures: Withdraw 2mL/kg of 10% solution and dilute with an equal amount of compatible fluid. Slow infusion over 10 minutes with ECG monitoring. Stop infusion if bradycardia occurs.

PREPARATION: For continuous infusion: Withdraw 5mL/kg of 10% calcium gluconate. Dilute to 25mL with appropriate diluent. Compatible fluids: 5% and 10% Glucose, sodium chloride 0.9%, 7.5% glucose in sodium chloride 0.18%

ADMINISTRATION: For intravenous use only Infuse at 1mL/hour Give via a central line, if available. If giving through UVC make sure the tip of the UVC is not in the heart or the liver.

ADVERSE EFFECTS:

Extravasation causes tissue necrosis. Rapid infusion may cause bradycardia, hypotension, and peripheral vasodilation.

COMMENTS: Monitor serum calcium and ionized calcium concentrations. Monitor ECG when bolus doses are given. DO NOT MIX WITH SODIUM BICARBONATE

REFERENCES: Paediatric Pharmacopoeia 13th Ed Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne Pediatric Dosage Handbook 14th Ed

DATE: January 2011